Holy Family Regional Catholic School Family Handbook 2019-2020 - Inspire. Challenge. Nurture.
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Holy Family Regional Catholic
School
Family Handbook 2019-2020
Inspire. Challenge. Nurture.
1Holy Family Regional Catholic School
2477 Trenton Road
Levittown, PA 19056
215-269-9600
Hfrcs.org
Pastors: Rev. John Wackerman, Queen of the Universe
Monsignor Michael McCormac, St. Frances Cabrini
Principal: Kara Haggerty
Vice Principal: William Snyder
OUR MISSION
Holy Family Regional Catholic School is a Christ-centered community
which strives each day to inspire faith, challenge young minds and
nurture the whole child. Our mission, in collaboration with parents and
guardians, is to prepare intellectually curious, lifelong learners who live
out their Catholic faith by following Jesus’ example of love and
compassion.
2GENERAL INFORMATION
Holy Family Regional Catholic School is a Catholic elementary school serving students from three years of
age to Eighth Grade. Holy Family exists primarily to educate the parish children of Queen of the Universe
in Levittown and St. Frances Cabrini in Fairless Hills, located within the Lower Bucks County Deanery of
the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Holy Family is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges
and Schools.
CONTACT INFORMATION
School Name: Holy Family Regional Catholic School
Street Address: 2477 Trenton Road, Levittown, PA 19056
HOURS OF OPERATION
Regular school hours are 7:55 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. Early dismissal is 11:30 a.m.
The school day is as follows:
7:00 a.m. CARES Opens
7:55 a.m. Classes Begin for Students in Grades K-8
8:10 a.m. Classes Begin for Pre-Kindergarten Students
11:30 a.m. Half-Day Pre-Kindergarten Dismissal
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch/Recess
2:30 p.m. Full-Day Pre-Kindergarten Dismissal
2:50 p.m. Dismissal for Students in Grades K-8
6:00 p.m. CARES closes
The school operates on Cycle Days- A through E. This is to allow all special subject teachers to meet
regularly with their students that would otherwise be missed because of holidays, inclement weather,
etc. The cycle days are posted with each week’s calendar.
COMMUNICATION
Weekly updates are posted into the Digital Envelope, which can be found on the homepage of the school’s
website: hfrcs.org Student academic progress can be tracked on My Students Progress (MSP).
Classroom and homework information can be found in the teacher webpage or through Google
Classroom.
Enrollment of children at Holy Family Regional Catholic School is a privilege, not
a right. Parents must understand that continued enrollment and re-enrollment
of their children is dependent on their support of the school, its staff and its
policies. If, in the opinion of the administration, the partnership between parent
and school is irretrievably broken, the school reserves the right to require the
parent to withdraw their child.
3TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
General Information…………………………………………………………………………… 3
School Policies
Attendance and Absence…………………………………………………………. 6
Behavioral Expectations…………………………………………………………… 8
CARES Program………………………………………………………………………... 10
Communication and Social Media……………………………………………. 11
Curriculum……………………………………………………………………………………. 12
Custody……………………………………………………………………………………. 13
Educational Trips……………………………………………………………………... 13
Extracurricular Activities………………………………………………………….. 14
Graduation/Closing Exercises………………………………………………….. 14
Health Services………………………………………………………………………… 14
Homework………………………………………………………………………………. 16
Honors Math…………………………………………………………………………… 17
Lunch Program…………………………………………………………………........ 17
Parent-Teacher Conferences…………………………………………………… 18
Party Invitations……………………………………………………………………… 18
Promotion/Retention Policy…………………………………………………… 18
Religious Program…………………………………………………………………… 19
Report Cards and Grading System…………………………………………… 19
Safe Environment……………………………………………………………………. 20
Safety Issues……………………………………………………………………………. 20
School Closing/Delayed Opening…………………………………………….. 22
Searches…………………………………………………………………………………. 22
School Property………………………………………………………………………. 22
Standardized/Other Testing……………………………………………………. 23
4State-Funded Services……………………………………………………………… 23
Student Council………………………………………………………………………. 23
Substitute Teachers………………………………………………………………… 24
Summer School………………………………………………………………………. 24
Transfers………………………………………………………………………………… 24
Transportation……………………………………………………………………….. 25
Tuition Policy………………………………………………………………………….. 26
Uniform Policy………………………………………………………………………… 26
Visitors Policy…………………………………………………………………………. 26
Volunteers………………………………………………………………………………. 27
Memorandum of Understanding–Appendix A………………………... 28
Uniform Descriptions–Appendix B………………………………………….. 29
Code of Conduct-Appendix C…………………………………………………… 32
5SCHOOL POLICIES
ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCE
Regular and timely attendance is crucial to a student’s daily and cumulative progress. Lateness and
absences must be kept to a minimum to ensure short- and long-term school success. When an extended
absence is expected because of illness or an accident, it is advisable to contact the teacher so that
assignments may be procured or arrangements may be made to obtain home tutoring services. Students
who miss fifteen (15) or more days of school, for any reason, have missed a major amount of work. In
such a case, there may be a special concern about the student’s progress and their preparation for the
following grade.
Regular school attendance is essential to the successful completion of the educational objectives of the
school. Too often, students assume that the educational process involves only the passing of tests and
completion of assignments. Quality education prepares students to assume responsible adult roles as
citizens, family members, workers, and self-directed learners by attending to their intellectual,
developmental, and social needs. These requirements of the educational process certainly cannot be
attained by students who do not participate in the overall educational program.
Family trips for business or pleasure during the school term are strongly discouraged. If parents/guardians
consider the trip absolutely necessary or beneficial, a written notification for the extended absence should
be sent to the Principal and teacher at least one week prior to the trip. Makeup work for this absence is
the responsibility of the parent/guardian and student, not the teacher. Homework and class assignments
will NOT be given prior to the start of the vacation. Upon return, all missed homework and assignments
will be given to the student and will need to be completed and returned at a date assigned by the
teacher(s).
PERFECT ATTENDANCE
The following are the Archdiocesan guidelines for perfect attendance:
• The student must be present and on time each instructional day. A student with excessive
lateness, that is more than five times during the school year whether excused or unexcused,
cannot receive perfect attendance.
• The student is excused for absence due to deaths in the immediate family. The “immediate
family” is defined as parent(s), grandparent(s), siblings, or member of the household.
• Diocesan high school visitations (shadow days) are an excused absence and do not nullify perfect
attendance.
• “TAKE YOUR CHILD TO WORK DAY” is not an excused absence and nullifies perfect attendance.
• For a child to have a full day of attendance, they must be in school until at least 11:30 a.m.
IF STUDENTS ARE ABSENT
• Parents/guardians of children in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8 are required to call the school
at 215-269-9600 ext. 250 by 8:30 a.m. to report the absence.
• A student who is absent from school is required to present a written note to the homeroom
teacher upon returning to school. This is a State requirement.
6• Absences of more than three (3) consecutive days must be confirmed by a physician through a
written doctor’s note upon return to school.
• If a student is chronically absent and/or demonstrates irregular attendance or whose frequent
absences suggest a pattern, a physician’s letter indicating that absences are justifiable may be
requested by the Principal or Assistant Principal. This request will be made by letter to the parent
or guardian.
• If a child is absent five days in a trimester, a letter will be sent to the parent or guardian from the
Principal or Assistant Principal. Continued absences will require a letter from a physician (see
above) and a parent conference.
• Students absent for 20 days will be placed on academic probation and an academic plan will
bedeveloped in conjunction with the teacher(s), counselor and administration.
• Students absent for 25 days may be required to attend 40 hours of summer tutoring before
returning to Holy Family the following year.
• Students absent 30 days may be asked to withdraw from Holy Family Regional Catholic School.
• In case of illness during the school day, the nurse will contact the parents/guardians or an adult
specified by the parents/guardians. The decision to send a child home is made by the nurse in
conjunction with the parent or guardian. A child may not independently contact the parent or
guardian to request pick up, that is, essentially dismissing him/herself.
• Parents/guardians are urged to arrange doctor and dental appointments on school holidays or
after school. If this is impossible, a note must be sent to the teacher in a timely manner concerning
the date and time of the appointment.
• If a parent/guardian wishes to have a child excused from school early, the parent/guardian must
send a written note to the teacher and Main Office prior to the dismissal (unless there is an
emergency) specifying the reason for the request and the name of the parent/guardian or adult
who will be picking up the child. If a parent/guardian calls for a child at any time, he/she must
report to the school office, not the child’s classroom, to sign out the child. Children will be released
into the custody of their parent/guardian or adult specified only from the Main Office. This is done
to guarantee the safety of the child.
PUNCTUALITY/LATENESS
Punctuality is crucial to your child’s success. A student who is consistently on time has the advantages of
preparation for work and a positive attitude toward the school day.
• Students may arrive as early as 7:35 a.m. Supervision will be provided until the children report to
their classrooms. Students who are enrolled in the CARES Program may arrive as early as 7:00 a.m.
(Please see the “CARES Program” section of this Handbook for more information about CARES
arrival and dismissal.)
• A student in Grades K-8 is considered late if he or she is not present in homeroom by 7:55 a.m.
and must report to the office for a late slip in order to be admitted to class. Pre-Kindergarten
students are expected in class by 8:10 a.m.
• Lateness will be recorded. Students must present a note from the parent for lateness to be
excused. However, all latenesses will be recorded. The parent or guardian of a student who is
chronically late, that is five times per trimester whether excused or unexcused, will warrant a
letter from the Principal or Assistant Principal reminding the parent/guardian of the school’s
attendance policy, and will receive an after school detention.
• An accumulation of three latenesses will result in demerits (3).
7• Dismissal begins at 2:50 p.m. Pre-Kindergarten dismissal is 2:30 p.m. Parents should meet their
child at the front door of the school building. Busing is not provided by the school districts for Pre-
Kindergarten students.
BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS
Self- discipline is a necessary reflection of the philosophy of a Catholic school and is fundamental to life.
Holy Family nurtures a positive sense of self-discipline in order to provide an environment conducive to
learning. Effective discipline has as its purpose the development of students who respect themselves,
other persons, and those in authority. Our aim is to motivate our students to develop a proper attitude
toward discipline and responsibility.
We expect all students to:
• Demonstrate a positive, cooperative attitude;
• Use appropriate language at all times;
• Respect all adults, including parents, teachers, bus drivers, secretaries, lunch personnel and
volunteers;
• Work in class in a quiet, cooperative manner when directed;
• Be courteous, accepting, supportive, encouraging, and friendly toward other students; Keep their
hands and bodies to themselves, especially at recess; and behave in a positive manner on the
school bus, following all bus rules.
Students are EXPECTED to show pride in their school by respecting all equipment, facilities, and personal
property. Students must keep their desks and the area around them clean by putting trash in the proper
receptacle and keep common areas such as hallways, bathrooms, the library, and the school grounds free
of litter. Gum is not permitted on the bus, playground, or in the school building.
School Bus Rules and Regulations:
Listening to and following the directions of the bus driver is always Rule #1. In addition, the following rules
are for everyone’s safety while riding the school bus:
• Students must remain seated while the bus is in motion.
• Screaming, throwing things, and foul language are NOT PERMITTED.
• Students are not permitted to eat or drink on the bus.
• Younger children (K-4) must sit in the FRONT OF THE BUS.
• Drivers must report incidents of misbehavior to the school office.
• Students may not switch school district buses for any reason, except in the situation of moving
out of one district and into another. Changing buses within the same district may be permissible
with a parent’s written permission and the driver’s approval.
• Students may not place hands out of windows, throw anything out of windows, or make any
obscene hand gestures while riding the bus.
Parents can help in this area in two ways:
• Impress on your children the importance of following the rules.
• Contact the school if you feel serious and/or frequent violations are occurring. Sometimes, the
school is not aware of these problems.
8Riding the school bus is a privilege. Repeated disregard of bus rules may result in not being permitted
to ride the bus. Bus drivers will review bus rules with students and will report incidents of misbehavior
to the school office.
Hallways and Bathrooms: Students are to maintain silence when moving through the hallways and using
the bathrooms.
Cafeteria
The following rules and consequences are intended to provide a safe atmosphere for the students in the
school cafeteria. All school rules that apply elsewhere remain in effect in the cafeteria.
• Respect others and their property.
• Speak in soft voices.
• Stay in seats.
• Keep places clean.
• Refrain from throwing food or trash.
Consequences for Misbehavior:
• Warning.
• Sit at time-out table. Lose outdoor recess.
• Possible demerits and/or detention
Recess: K-8 students have outdoor recess if the temperature/wind chill (real feel) is 32 degrees of above.
Students must come to school with proper outer attire suitable to the weather.
Playground:
• Students are to walk while entering or leaving the building.
• Once the student leaves the building, he/she must stay outside for the entire recess unless the
student obtains the permission of the teacher or volunteer on duty.
• Eating is not permitted.
• Students are not permitted to leave the immediate area of supervision.
• Rough games and rough play, such as shoving, pushing, kicking, and grabbing, are not allowed.
Tackle football, contact soccer, and hardball are not permitted. “Pegging” is considered dangerous
and a form of bullying.
• Foul language is not permitted.
• Littering or throwing rocks, sticks, snowballs, etc., are not permitted.
• At the end of recess, when the bell is rung, students are to walk to their line quickly and quietly.
Teachers will meet their students in the recess area.
• In general, older children should be a positive influence on, and help, younger children.
Cooperation and sharing should be continuously in practice.
• The playground set is intended for use by children 7-12 years of age., or grades 1-6.
Indoor Recess: We want indoor recess to be a positive and enjoyable experience for students and
teachers. These rules promote these goals:
• In general, the classroom must be calm and peaceful, with students using indoor voices, much like
regular class time.
9• Limit the number of students going to the bathroom to one at a time, unless a student is in
distress.
• Shouting is not permitted.
• Students must remain seated unless given permission to move from their seat.
• Students are not permitted to sit at the teacher’s desk or use the teacher’s chair.
• The classroom teacher must give permission for the classroom computer to be used.
• All school rules are in effect. Recess is a little more relaxed, but students are still in school.
• Students are not permitted to sit or stand on desks.
• Students may donate games, such as board games, that they can play.
• Teachers may show movies of a G-rating or something educational and entertaining in nature. It
is best if students have something constructive to do.
While good behavior is its own reward because it creates a positive and safe atmosphere, our faculty
recognizes and reinforces individuals and groups of students for their appropriate behavior by
compliments and privileges. Every school must have a listing of behaviors that are inappropriate and the
resulting consequences. The Holy Family Behavior Code is presented to point out specifically the types of
behavior that are not permitted and the consequences for each.
Rewards: A student who behaves appropriately will be held in high regard by adults and peers, will be
able to focus more on schoolwork and achievement, and will be free from the personal upset that
misbehavior causes. Generally, such students will find school life more pleasant and enjoyable.
Consequences of Misconduct: Behavior that detracts from a quality learning environment or which shows
disrespect or disregard for the well-being of others will be subject to corrective action.
SEE APPENDIX C FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION ABOUT THE CODE OF CONDUCT
CARES PROGRAM
The CARES Program (Children Are Receiving Extended Services) is a before- and after-school program for
children enrolled at Holy Family in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8. This program provides professional
care, supervision, and recreational activities and serves working families who desire both an elementary
school education and a supplementary day care program in a Catholic environment. This professionally
operated program schedules time for homework completion.
CARES is open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:40 a.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. each school day including early
dismissal days. There is no CARES on the afternoon of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, the afternoon
of the last day of school before the Christmas break, and the afternoon of the last day of school. CARES is
closed when Holy Family has a school holiday or when school is cancelled for the day due to inclement
weather or unexpected emergencies.
An “occasional need” service is available to families who require supervision of their child(ren) in case of
an unexpected situation or a family emergency. This “occasional need” basis exists ONLY to assist parents
in a dilemma and should not be used otherwise.
10All families who wish to use CARES on a full-time, a part-time, or an “occasional need” basis, must register
their child(ren) each school year and must keep the CARES Program informed of any address or telephone
number changes. The registration information is necessary in case of an emergency.
CARES fees must be paid monthly in a time fashion in order to participate in the program.
COMMUNICATION AND SOCIAL MEDIA
Good communication between school and home is essential for good relationships and the smooth
operation of the school.
Holy Family communicates information to families in the following ways:
• The school website: hfrcs.org
• The weekly communication is sent every Tuesday and is posted on the home page of the school
website – an email reminder is sent
• My Students Progress
• HFRCS Facebook page
• Text/phone and email blasts for urgent updates
• Teacher web pages, Google, and email communication
• In-school announcements
• (Parent created social media groups may not contain accurate information and are not an official
communication source of the school.)
All of these should provide all the information needed by parents/guardians to be informed on all school
matters.
Social Media- School and Teachers
The advantages of using social media are considerable. The school maintains a Facebook page to inform
the school and wider community of activities, projects and events happening at Holy Family. It is an
opportunity for anyone to “Like” what is seen there, and to “Share” with “Friends” the good news of
HFRCS. The school regards this as one means of marketing ourselves, and it allows viewers to serve as
goodwill ambassadors for Holy Family. Holy Family regards our use of social media as a positive tool for
communication. For this reason, negative comments, which are best handled in a more private setting
with a teacher or school administrator, are removed.
Sharing personal email accounts and/or social networking sites between teachers and parents/students
is never appropriate. Only the school email address or school social media site should be shared.
Social Media- Parents and Guardians
Parents/Guardians may not create social media sites using the school’s name. While other pages may
be developed among parents/guardians for the purposes of networking and socializing, they have the
potential to cause pain and suffering to individuals, groups, or the entire school community.
11The school hopes that parents and guardians utilize the school-sanctioned means of communication.
Accurate information through unofficial school pages cannot be guaranteed as the school has no control
over what is posted.
Just as parents discourage their children from behaving inappropriately online, it is important to
remember that negative comments that parents/guardians post about our school can have a greater
impact than expected. The reputation of teachers, administrators and the school can be permanently
damaged.
Some Suggestions for the Use of Social Media
• Before you post something online, ask yourself if what you are posting is something that the group
or individual really needs to know. Is it relevant, positive and helpful?
• What you post online is a direct reflection of who you are. People will potentially form lasting
opinions of you based on what you post.
• Be a good role model. Keep comments calm and polite. If things get heated online, consider
logging out and taking a few moments to relax and think. Hasty, emotional responses could
inflame situations unnecessarily.
• Be mindful when commenting, try to keep general and avoid posting anything that could identify
individuals.
• Be mindful that comments reflect someone’s perspective and not necessarily the facts.
• Be prepared to find your comments shared with a wider audience than intended.
• Take the time to think about the content you are about to post to avoid upset, embarrassment,
and possible legal action.
• If you have raised an issue with the school or a teacher, or know of someone who has, refrain
from discussing those details on social media.
We value parent/guardian feedback. If you have a compliment, complaint or inquiry about an issue at
school, the best approach is to speak directly to the teacher or administration, rather than in a public
forum. (Imagine if the school or teacher chose to discuss a student or parent on its Facebook page!) If
you encounter negative or derogatory content online which involves the school, hinders a child’s
learning, or affects a teacher or the school community at large, notify the principal.
Parents/guardians who elect to use social media as the forum for complaint or derogatory comments
that negatively affect a child, teacher or the school community will be asked to withdraw their
child(ren) from Holy Family.
We trust that all members of our school family will respect the good name of Holy Family Regional Catholic
School and its staff by adhering to the Communications and Social Media Policy.
CURRICULUM
The curriculum of Holy Family Regional Catholic School follows the guidelines established by the Office of
Catholic Education of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Under the guidance of the Office of Catholic
Education, faculty and administration exert constant efforts to provide a balanced, well-organized, and
12continuous curriculum. Periodic evaluations and standardized testing, as well as faculty in-service, help to
ensure the strength of educational programs.
The school curriculum emphasizes the development of basic skills and critical thinking, and the acquisition
of a core of knowledge and information. Students are provided with a firm foundation in the Catholic
faith, language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Special emphasis is placed on the
development of effective reading, writing, and study skills. Instruction in Spanish, computers, art, music,
health, and physical education provides a well-rounded education. The goal of the curriculum is to develop
in students a deep love and reverence for God, themselves, and others, as well as an ever-increasing
knowledge of the world and the skills they will need to improve their lives.
For detailed information about the curriculum, go to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s website
www.aopcatholicschools.org and click on Elementary Education.
CUSTODY
It is mandatory for the school to have a copy of the Custody Decree. Parents are asked to inform school
personnel when the legal custody of child (ren) resides with one parent. Custodial parents are likewise
asked to supply the school with any applicable copies of Protection from Abuse Orders. Only those
individuals who have legal custody of the student may attend school meetings, participate in educational
decisions, and review educational records regarding that student.
A child will not be released to a parent who does not have physical custody, without the written consent
of the custodial parent. To determine the custodial parent, all separated or divorced parents of students
enrolled in Holy Family must provide the school with a copy of the Court Order or Custodial Agreement
adjudicating that determination of custody. This Court Order/Custodial Agreement, along with any
Custody Decree or additional pertinent paperwork, is placed in a confidential file.
EDUCATIONAL TRIPS
The students may be afforded the opportunity to participate in class field trips. The purpose of these trips
is to broaden the religious, intellectual, cultural, and social experiences of each child. Parental permission
is required of each student who will go on the trip. No verbal approval may be given. Permission slips must
be in writing. Proper dress and good conduct are essential on these trips. Since these trips are primarily a
learning experience, time so spent is considered part of the normal school day.
Educational trips are privileges and students can be denied participation if they fail to meet academic or
behavioral requirements. If a student is denied participation in an educational trip, that student is
expected to report to the Principal’s office or an assigned classroom on the scheduled day of the trip. Due
to insurance and legality issues, parents who are selected as chaperones MAY NOT BRING SIBLINGS ON
SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS. All chaperones must have completed all background checks and the documentation
must be on file at the school in order to attend.
If a parent/guardian elects not to have their child participate in an educational trip, the student must
attend school on the day of the trip. Work relevant to trip will be assigned to the student and completed
as directed by the teacher.
13The school day is not completed at the conclusion of a class trip. Teachers often plan follow up or
evaluator activities for students once they return to the school. For this reason, parents who attend the
trip as a chaperone are not permitted to take their child at the conclusion of the trip.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Students have the opportunity to participate in school-sponsored, extracurricular activities including but
not limited to: student council, band, yearbook, school play, Christmas pageant, chess club, chorus,
dances, etc.
Participation in extracurricular activities is contingent upon acceptable behavior. Moderators may limit
participation at their discretion with final approval of the Principal. Students MUST have arrangements
for transportation at the conclusion of an after school club. Students not picked up within 10 minutes of
the conclusion of the club will be sent to CARES and will be billed accordingly.
GRADUATION/CLOSING EXERCISES
Eighth grade students who have completed the prescribed course of study and maintained a suitable
discipline record are eligible for graduation if all financial obligations have been met. Procedures for
graduation are determined by the Administration in consultation with the eighth-grade teachers.
Participation in graduation/closing exercises is a privilege, not a right. Holy Family Regional Catholic
School has the right to deny any student from participating in graduation/closing exercises if, in the view
of the school, the student’s conduct or academic or disciplinary record indicates that the privilege should
not be extended. ALL TUITION, AND OTHER FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS MUST BE PAID IN FULL FOR A
STUDENT TO PARTICIPATE IN ALL GRADUATION-REALTED ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING THE 8TH GRADE TRIP.
NO RECORDS WILL BE SENT TO HIGH SCHOOLS UNTIL ALL FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS ARE PAID IN FULL.
HEALTH SERVICES
The Neshaminy School District provides a nurse for the monitoring of health records. Holy Family provides
nursing coverage for tending to ill children, administering first aid, and administration of medications.
R.N. coverage is generally available for the entire time the children are in the building. The nurse maintains
a comprehensive health record and emergency information on each student. The Emergency Card must
be filled out completely in order for the nurse to provide the best possible care in case of an illness or
emergency. It is vital to notify the school nurse of any changes in your child’s health. If the nurse calls a
parent because of a student’s illness, the parent should report directly to the school and sign the child
out. The Nurse’s Office telephone number is 215-269-9604.
If a child has any special health problems, a parent is to notify the school nurse. If these problems
necessitate restriction or exclusion from any class or activity, it must be verified by a note from a physician.
For example, a note must accompany any student who cannot participate in gym class so that it does not
affect the student’s grade.
14If a student becomes ill during the school day, the child must notify the classroom teacher, who will refer
him/her to the school nurse. If the student is unable to remain in school due to illness, the school nurse
will notify the parents to make arrangements to have the child picked up from school.
A child is to be kept home from school if he/she has any of the following symptoms:
• Temperature of 100 degrees or higher. Temperature should be normal for at least 24 hours
without medication before returning to school.
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Persistent cough or thick nasal discharge
• Itchy or red eyes with a discharge
• Earache
• Rash
• Persistent itching of the scalp. If a child is suspected to have head lice, a parent should call the
school nurse to arrange a time for the child to be checked before he/she returns to the classroom.
Head Lice Policy
No student may attend Holy Family or any of its programs while experiencing a lice infestation.
“Lice Infestation” shall refer to the presence of any louse observed on the scalp and /or the observation
of nits attached to the hair shaft.
Exclusion Procedures to Control Lice Infestation:
Any student referred to the school health office for suspicion of lice infestation shall be examined by the
school nurse. If the student is found to have a lice infestation, the following steps are taken:
• The parent or guardian is notified that the student has been excluded from the school
environment and must be taken home.
• All siblings as well as close contacts of the effected student are screened by school personnel for
possible lice infestation. Any further cases found are also excluded.
Re-admission of Students Excluded for Lice Infestation:
Students excluded for lice infestation may return to the school environment as soon as treatment has
been given.
• If a child returns to school with many nits or live lice, the child will be sent home to remove the
nits. Likewise, if the hair has been combed through and only a few nits remain that can be easily
removed by the nurse, the parents will be notified to re-comb the hair and the child will be allowed
to remain in school. The child will be checked and the parents contacted daily until nit free.
• Since the life cycle of the louse lasts approximately one month; all affected students will be
checked weekly to identify possible re-infestation as early as possible.
Open communication and cooperation between the nurse and parents will assist in a quick return to
school for all students affected by this public nuisance.
15Identification of Lice infestation OUTSIDE of School:
If lice are discovered on the student at home, please notify the school nurse of your findings and
treatment, so the nurse can then check other contacts in the school. We understand many people do
not want to report lice. Contracting lice is “bad luck.” It can happen to anyone at any time. Working
together we can keep any outbreak to a minimum.
Holy Family adheres to the following procedures approved by the Neshaminy Board of School Directors
for the administration of medication during the school day:
• Medication will be administered to students only when failure to take the medication will
jeopardize the health of the student, or the student would not be able to attend school if it is not
administered.
• Prescription medication must be sent in the original pharmaceutical container and accompanied
by a physician’s order to take the medication during the school day.
• Over-the-counter medications, which are not listed on the student’s emergency card, will not be
administered unless they are in their original container and accompanied by a physician’s order
to take the medication during school hours.
• If a child is to self-administer a medication during the school day, for example, an inhaler, written
permission from the child’s physician is necessary.
• All medicines, prescription or over-the-counter, must be brought to school by the parent/guardian
and not sent to school with the student or they will not be administered. This includes such things
as Tylenol, cough drops, Tums, etc. The nurse has the responsibility of administering all
medications.
NOTE: It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to provide transportation home when a student
becomes sick or injured during the school day. In cases of extreme emergency, the school will
have the student transported by ambulance to the nearest hospital in order to facilitate
immediate medical care.
HOMEWORK
Homework, which includes writing and study assignments in various subjects, is assigned to enrich
and/or reinforce subject matter taught in the classroom. Homework is considered in the grading process
and should be done in an atmosphere free from distractions. The Office of Catholic Education
recommends the following time schedule for homework.
Grades 1 - 2 30 minutes
Grades 3 - 4 60 minutes
Grades 5 - 6 90 minutes
Grades 7 - 8 120 minutes
16Parents are asked to make every effort to see that homework is done neatly and completely. The best
results are usually achieved when a parent checks and signs their child’s assignment book after the
homework has been completed. If the child is spending more time on homework than expected by the
teacher, the parent should speak to the teacher so that the child can be helped to work more efficiently.
NOTE: In the event of a student’s absence, requests for assignments and books must be made by 12 noon,
and the materials picked up between 3:00-3:45 p.m. in the school office.
For grades 4-8, homework is due on the day for which it is assigned. If a student is absent, the homework
may be turned on the day the student returns for full credit. Major or long term assignments (e.g.
projects, research papers) will be accepted one day late with 10 points deducted prior to grading. If a
student is absent on the day a long term project is due, it may be turned in on the day the student returns
for full credit. If a pattern of absence is noted on project due dates, a parent-teacher consultation will be
requested.
HONORS MATH PROGRAM
Candidates for the Honors Math Program in Grades 5-8 are identified through Terra Nova Testing, Math
Level Testing and Exams, and observation of classroom performance.
CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION
Students being considered for the Elementary Honors Math Program should meet the following criteria:
• Consistent scores of 90 or above in the Math Composite Score for Standardized Testing (National
Percentiles used).
• Consistent scores of 80 or above in the Reading Comprehension test of the Standardized Testing.
• Evidence of above average performances on Mathematics Level Mastery Tests (Diocesan Level
Testing). Students admitted from other programs/schools should be tested using back copies of
the level tests. “Above average performance” is interpreted as a score of 85 or above.
• Consistent grades of 90 or above in Mathematics on the report card.
• Cognitive Skills Index falling in the Range of 125 in the Terra Nova Test.
These criteria are not arbitrary. Students are identified as potential candidates for the Honors Math
Program at the end of Grade 4. The program is begun at Grade 5 to ensure that the students have had a
sufficient amount of time to master the skills necessary to complete the Algebra 1 course in the eighth
grade.
Honors Math is taught daily within the time framework of the regular class period. Students in this
program are expected to perform at a higher level and, as always, to be conscientious regarding class
participation and assignments.
BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROGRAM
Holy Family Regional Catholic School’s free Breakfast and Hot Lunch Program is sponsored by the
Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Nutritional Development Services. School breakfast provides a student with
¼ of their daily calories and key growth nutrients. A typical breakfast consists of a whole grain entrée
such as an apple-cinnamon muffin, mini maple pancakes, or an egg and cheese bagel, a half-pint of low-
17fat or fat-free milk and two servings of fruit. The lunch menu includes items such as meat, vegetables,
baked items, and milk. The lunch is intended to provide children with 1/3 of the calories, vitamins, and
minerals they need for the day. Fat is kept low by offering low- or no-fat milk (white, strawberry, and
chocolate). Only 100% juice is served, and whole grains are used whenever possible. Items are prepackaged
for food safety and easy service. Menus are made available on the website.
Families who prefer to pack their own lunch and snacks may do so. To promote good health, nutritious
foods are encouraged. For students who have forgotten their lunch, parents may drop off lunches at the
school. Parents, who would like to provide lunch for a class, are to contact the school office to make
special arrangements. No fast food delivery for an individual student is allowed by either vendors or
parents.
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
Mandatory parent-teacher conferences are held at the beginning of November. Parent-teacher
conferences may also be held after the distribution of the report card for the each trimester, if deemed
necessary by either the parent/guardian or the teacher. Additional conferences with the teacher, the
Assistant Principal, or the Principal are available by appointment only. Requests for an appointment may
be made by contacting the school office or sending a written note or email to the teacher. Teachers
request 24 hours to set up a conference time or return a response.
Parents/guardians who have legal custody of a student may attend educational meetings, participate in
educational decisions, and review educational records. Persons who do not have legal custody have no
such educational rights and may not participate in these matters unless they have the expressed
permission of the custodial parent/guardian.
PARTY INVITATIONS
Invitations to home parties may be distributed in school only if all of the children in a class are invited to
the party. If it is a girls’ party, then all of the girls must be invited. If it is a boys’ party, then all of the boys
must be invited. If it is a general party, then the entire class must be invited. If all are not included, the
invitations can be sent from the home but may not come to school.
PROMOTION/RETENTION POLICY
Careful assessment of the student’s performance and ability must be undertaken before retention is
recommended. Many factors are considered: student’s gender, age, physical size, previous retention,
behavior patterns, maturity, intelligence, and performance on grade level tests and assignments.
Except in unusual cases, non-promotion is discouraged beyond the primary grades. The ultimate decision
in regard to non-promotion must be a joint one between the Principal and teachers. Parents/guardians
will be informed in writing of possible non-promotion and arrangements made for consultation.
18RELIGIOUS PROGRAM
As a Catholic school community, students are provided with opportunities to serve Christ and His Church
in the following ministries:
Altar Servers
Liturgical Readers
Children’s Choir
Cantors/Leaders of Song
Morning Leaders of Prayer
A prayerful, religious atmosphere in our school is developed and maintained through the following:
• Prayers to begin and end the school day.
• School liturgies and prayer services throughout the school year.
• Sacramental preparation for Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
• Availability of the Sacrament of Reconciliation at the beginning of the school year, and during
Lent.
Since parents/guardians are, and remain through life, the primary educators of their children, the school
assists them in the preparation of the children for reception of the sacraments. Parents/guardians of
children preparing for the sacraments are required to participate in a sacramental program provided by
their respective parish community. These programs are on an adult level since it is believed that the child’s
love of and practice of their faith depends on the family. Students will receive their sacraments within the
parish where they are registered.
CONFIRMATION
This sacrament is administered to the children in eighth grade within their home parish, with catechesis
taking place during the seventh grade year. The date is determined by the Archdiocese after consultation
with the respective Pastor.
EUCHARIST
The children in third grade receive this sacrament within the home parish, where they are registered.
RECONCILIATION
The children are prepared for Reconciliation in second grade and usually receive this sacrament in the
third trimester of that year within the home parish where they are registered.
REPORT CARDS AND GRADING SYSTEM
Report cards are issued three (3) times a year in accordance with the schedule set by the Office of Catholic
Education. The report card is an estimate of the student’s progress in school and should be carefully
studied by the parents/guardians.
Grading follows the guidelines established by the Office of Catholic Education and is defined on the
Archdiocesan report card. Special subjects, such as music, physical education, art, and technology, will
base grades on a 1-4 scale. Grades of 1 or 2 in special subjects will keep a student off the Honor Roll. A
19student’s Personal and Social Growth (conduct) and Effort and Study Skills (effort) also is graded on a scale
of 1-4. An effort or conduct grade of 1 or 2 during a marking period will keep a student off the Honor Roll.
The following criteria must be met to achieve the Honor Roll in a given marking period:
Distinguished Honors:
• General average of 95 or above in academic subjects.
• Conduct, effort, and special subject grades of 3 or 4.
• All grades must be 95 or above.
First Honors:
• General average of 90 or above in academic subjects.
• Conduct, effort, and special subject grades of 3 or 4.
• All grades must be 90 or above.
Second Honors:
• General average of 85 or above in academic subjects.
• Conduct, effort, and special subject grades of 3 or 4.
• All grades must be 85 or above.
Students who make Honor Roll
SAFE ENVIRONMENT
The Safe Environment Program is a comprehensive child safety and child sexual abuse prevention program,
which creates a network of prevention and protection for the children entrusted into the Archdiocese’s
care. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is taking action to keep children safe. Archdiocesan policy requires
all clergy, parish, school and Archdiocesan employees to obtain background checks and clearances, as well
as Safe Environment training. Volunteers who have any possible contact with children are required to
obtain background checks and clearances. All parents/guardians are required to have their clearances in
order to chaperone field trips or participate in activity that involves Holy Family students. For information
call the school.
Clearances must be renewed every three years in accordance with State and Archdiocesan policy.
The Archdiocesan schools and parish religious education programs offer age-appropriate personal safety
instruction annually, including internet safety. Through these programs, OCYP ensures that children
receive important information on how to stay safe.
SAFETY ISSUES
INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
Computers are a valuable tool for education and one of the school’s purposes is to encourage the proper
use of computer related technology including the Internet. Students and all users of computer technology
have a responsibility to use these tools properly and in accordance with the Accepted User Policy. All
students and parents are required to sign the “Student and Parent Electronic Device Agreement”.
20PHOTO RELEASE
In order to promote and market our school, contact with the local media may occur. Press releases are
accompanied many times with a photo of a student, teacher, and/or various parent(s)/guardian(s). It is
necessary for the school to keep a current photo release form on file that indicates the parents’/guardians’
permission for a student’s image to be used in newspapers, flyers, posters, or any other publication. This
release form must be returned promptly and renewed annually.
SAFETY PATROL
A teacher moderator, along with eighth-grade students, assists in maintaining order and promoting safety
in school. The students of Holy Family Regional Catholic School are expected to respect those in charge,
and cooperate and obey all school safety guidelines.
FIRE SAFETY
Fire drills and inspections are conducted regularly and monitored by the Middletown Township Fire
Department. It is essential that when the signal is given everyone, including volunteers, respond promptly
by leaving the building by the prescribed route. Fire exits and instructions are clearly visible in each
classroom. Students not in their classroom when the bell is sounded should leave by the closest exit and
report to his/her homeroom teacher.
SAFETY PLANS
Our world today requires us to take a strong stand with regard to school safety. There is a sense of
security knowing we have a plan. Knowing what to do and when to do it keeps CRISIS from becoming
CHAOS. Our approach to safety encourages our staff and students to have situational awareness,
recognition, assessment and response skills. We achieve these throught the ALICE protocol.
A – Alert
L – Lockdown
I – Inform
C – Counter
E – Evacuate
Any of these options may be our best FIRST option.
We work closely with our School Resource Officer (SRO) from the Middletown Township Police
Department, to engage our students in being involved in their own safety. Working with ALICE gives our
students and staff the ability to make decisions quickly under duress, stress or fear. They become their
own first responder. Scheduled drills, planned and unannounced, take place throughout the school
year, often under the supervision of our SRO. Follow up discussions take place after drills to trouble
shoot any concerns or questions about drills and safety.
Designated areas are predetermined for students and teachers in an evacuation situation. It is critical
for parents to understand that following an evacuation occurrence, students will be dismissed to
parents/guardians only when it is safe to do so. When you are notified via My Students Progress text
and voice mail or via television that an evacuation has occured, then dismissal procedures will be
initiated.
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